Rosemary Garlic Focaccia with Cherry Tomatoes
Rosemary Garlic Focaccia with Cherry Tomatoes is a classic Italian-style bread that’s airy, fluffy inside with a crispy, golden crust. The dough is infused with olive oil and topped with fragrant rosemary, roasted garlic, and sweet, bursting cherry tomatoes. Each bite is savory, herby, and a little juicy — perfect for snacking, dipping, or serving alongside soups and salads.
Making focaccia at home is easier than you think — and incredibly rewarding!
Total Time:
Prep Time: 25 minutes
First Rise: 1 hour
Second Rise: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
1 tablespoon sugar
3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
For the Topping:
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2–3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried)
Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)
Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast.
Stir gently and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5–6 minutes).
3. First Rise:
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl.
Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
4. Shape and Second Rise:
Drizzle olive oil into a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared pan.
Gently stretch and press the dough to fit the pan.
Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
After the second rise, use your fingers to dimple the dough deeply all over.
Press halved cherry tomatoes, sliced garlic, and rosemary into the dimples.
Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and black pepper.
6. Bake:
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the focaccia is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped underneath.
7. Cool and Serve:
Let it cool slightly before slicing.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes & Tips:
Olive oil generosity: Don’t be shy with the olive oil! It helps create that signature crispy, flavorful crust.
Tomato placement: Press the cherry tomatoes deep into the dough so they stay in place during baking.
Garlic safety: Slice the garlic thinly — thick pieces can burn during baking.
Customize: Add toppings like olives, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes if you want extra flavors.
Make ahead: You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for even more flavor. Bring it back to room temperature before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! You can skip the proofing step and mix instant yeast directly into the flour. However, proofing (activating) still ensures freshness.
2. Why dimple the dough?
Dimpling traps the olive oil, tomatoes, and garlic into the dough and prevents it from puffing up too much while baking.
3. Can I use different herbs?
Absolutely! Thyme, oregano, or sage work great alongside or instead of rosemary.
4. How do I store leftover focaccia?
Wrap leftovers tightly and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in a 350°F oven for best texture.
5. Can I freeze focaccia?
Yes. Slice, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven until warm.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 290mg
Potassium: 90mg
Vitamin C: 4% DV (from tomatoes)
Iron: 10% DV
Rosemary Garlic Focaccia with Cherry Tomatoes brings together a fluffy, oil-enriched bread with savory, juicy toppings. It’s easy enough for beginners, customizable, and totally addicting — a perfect side for any meal or a snack on its own!